Chelsea could be set to land Watford youngster Richarlison at the second time of asking, after he spurned their advances last year.
The Blues are well aware of the capabilities of the talented 20-year-old and he was one of the players on their radar last summer. However, in the end, he declined joining the club as he was not assured of regular first-team opportunities.
The Brazil international only arrived at Watford last summer on a five-year deal for £11.2 million, but he has excelled so much so that it will be very surprising if he stays with the Hornets beyond the end of the current season.
Richarlison started the Premier League season in top form and scored five goals from his first 12 appearances. Despite his goal-scoring prowess having declined in recent weeks, Richarlison has attracted interest from the likes of the Blues, Everton and Manchester United.
United are reportedly monitoring the youngster and could sign him in the event that Anthony Martial leaves the club during the summer. The future of the 22-year-old Martial is currently the subject of speculation after he reportedly turned down a new contract offer to remain at Old Trafford.
It has been claimed that Watford will demand a fee of £40 million for the services of the winger. This could prove to be too much of a gamble for Chelsea. While Richarlison undoubtedly has potential and did start of the season on a good note, his form has dried up during recent months, as evidenced by the fact that his last league goal came during the month of November.
Chelsea may instead opt to spend such a large sum of money on signing a new winger who is proven and consistent at the highest level. Richarlison has plenty of potential and could go on to become a star in the future, but he could benefit from joining a club like Everton over Chelsea or Manchester United.
